As Memphis prepares to waive Walter Clayton Jr., the Miami Heat could leverage their proven developmental system to transform the former Florida star into the next high-impact guard.
MIAMI, Fla. – The Memphis Grizzlies are reportedly likely to waive NCAA Champion guard Walter Clayton Jr. and the Miami Heat could emerge as a potential suitor to sign and further develop him.
After a productive rookie season, the 23-year-old has experienced the business side of professional basketball. Clayton Jr. first joined the Utah Jazz, then was traded to the Grizzlies as part of the Jaren Jackson Jr. blockbuster trade ahead of the deadline. Overall, he averaged 7.8 points on 38.4 percent shooting, two rebounds, and four assists in 69 games (six starts).
If released, the Heat can open a two-way slot to sign Clayton Jr. Although it would be untraditional for a first-round pick this early in their career, there’s a beneficial side to it. Clayton Jr. would be eligible for 50 regular-season games, but primarily take the time to develop with the Sioux Falls Skyforce; Heat’s G League affiliate.
Despite having one standard roster spot open, a veteran guard is likely to fill it.
The Heat should be familiar with Clayton Jr.’s talent, since he was a star in the Sunshine State before. In the 2024-25 college basketball season, the Lake Wales (Fla). native led the Florida Gators to a National Championship. Clayton Jr. averaged 18.3 points on 44.8 percent shooting, 3.7 rebounds, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.2 steals in 39 game (all starts). He received consensus All-American honors and voted the NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player.
Despite all the accomplishments, Clayton Jr. fell out of the lottery. He’s an undersized guard, listed at 6-4 and 195 pounds. The Heat have developed and found success with players with similar frames.
Gabe Vincent, 6-2 and 200 pounds, was a starter in the 2023 playoffs and helped the team reach the NBA Finals as an eighth seed. He averaged 12.7 points on 40.2 percent shooting, 1.4 rebounds, and 3.5 assists during the historic run. Last season with Davion Mitchell, 6-0 and 202 pounds, is coming off a remarkable season as a full-time starting poing guard. He averaged 9.3 points on 49 percent shooting, 2.7 rebounds, 6.5 assists (new career high), and a steal in 70 games.
Clayton Jr. could follow the same path as both league veterans, but it would likely take a significant step back from a career standpoint. However, it could pay off in the long run as the 2026-27 season is a couple of months away.
Anthony Aguirre covers the Miami Hurricanes and Miami Heat for Roundtable Sports. Contact info for tips/info: [email protected] & 305-987-3290 | Follow on Instagram/X: @AnthonyA_Sports
